Bere, Donald

July 2nd, 2016

The family sadly announce the passing of a dear husband of 56 years, a great Dad and a friend. Don was a partner at Stevenson & Hunt for many years and past president of Forest City Kiwanis Club. He is survived by his high school sweetheart, Sharon (Stoneham). Proud father of Scott (Lindi), Brent (Wendy), Laural and Janet (Jon). Adoring Papa to Mitchell and Madison Bere, Brooklyn and Jackson Bere, and Liam and Caitlin Stone. Survived by his sister Joan (Umberto) Sapone, and predeceased by his parents James and Ruby Bere, and his brother Barry Bere. The family wish to thank the staff on Harris Park at Henley Place for the compassion and care shown to Don. Special thanks to Tricia Dusten and Dr. Michelle Lockhart. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 3:00 – 5:00 and 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, where the funeral service will be conducted on Thursday, July 7th, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. Private family interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Don are asked to consider Alzheimer Outreach Services of McCormick Home.

Book of Condolences

Kathleen HurleyOnce in a while people come into your life and leave a memorable impression, for me Don and his family are those people. I had the privilege of being one of many of Don's care takers, he will be fondly remembered, memories are like gifts you can open anytime and anywhere, rest in peace Don and thank you for the memories, my heart is with Don's family during this difficult time, may your memories be of comfort and bring you a smile during your sorrows.

Jörg HenzeMany years ago, we wanted to start our own construction company and we needed the knowledge and expertise of a professional to help us with the insurance and bonding issues. Friends introduced us to Don and he took charge, helped and assisted us, but mostly guided us to success. We depended on his expertise and guidance and he took a personal interest in our wellbeing and our success was based on his personal interest, friendship and guidance.
We all enjoyed a close friendship with him and he may not have been aware that due to his concerns for our well being, he did not only help the company to succeed, but he was responsible for the well being of many families in the Greater London Area.
With great sadness did we hear of his passing, but we will for ever be grateful for all he has done for all of us. He will never be forgotten and we will be for ever greatful to him.
With great sadness did we learn about his passing and our prayers are with his family, but he we will live on in our hearts forever. He was a true professional gentleman.
The world is a better place due to the contributions Don made.

Jack StephensWe have lost a good man and a great friend in Donald Gordon Bere. If wealth was measured in friends, Don would be very rich.
We met 56 years ago through our wives Sharon and Ruth who went through nursing training at Victoria Hospital.
Other than his family, Don had two passions. Kiwanis and the card game cribbage.
We traveled to many places together and no matter where we were, first thing in the morning the Donald would show up with a deck of cards and a cribbage board. He would play cribbage morning, noon and night if you were willing.
It would be fitting to send him off with a deck of cards and a cribbage board because when he enters the Pearly Gates, he will be looking for a Kiwanis meeting and a cribbage game.
Keep pegging old friend and R.I.P. We will miss you.

Sue PurdyI had the pleasure of working with Don for many years at Stevenson and Hunt. He was the ultimate gentleman and his obvious love for his wife and family touched me deeply.
He also cared for his clients and was always willing to go the extra mile for them.
I learned a lot from Don, about life, work and living.
My heart goes out to his 'bride' and children, as I know you have lost a wonderful man.

Lorraine Brian AinslieWe are deeply saddened by the news of Don. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Sharon, Brent and all your family at this time.
Lorraine Brian and Cole Ainslie

Marylin McConnellDon was a wonderful husband, father and friend. I wish you all the luck Sharon. We will miss his great smile and sense of humour.
Love Marylin.

John & Sandy DixonOur sincere condolences on the loss of Don. A fine man. We remember those happy days at Ipperwash Beach with our young children and the LSCI choir.

Yvonne and Bruce LambertSharon and Family
We send to you our most sincere condolences to you. May love surround you and comfort you.

Nancy LearyOur thoughts and prayers are with your entire family Laural.

Karen McKeownBoth Lyman and I wish to send our deepest sympathy to Mrs Bere , Laurel and the family .. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all at this time of sadness.

Kevin & ChastityWe are thinking of you all. May you find peace in the memories. Sending you lots of love from Calgary. Kevin & Chastity

Rev. Matthew PennySharon and all your family;
The congregation at Lambeth United Church expresses its sincere Condolences in the passing of Don. He will be missed as he was a person of strength and character. His work on the church council, and with the Trustees has been and will be much appreciated as time moves forward.
In this time of loss, we offer prayers and hopes for the strength of your faith to guide your journey. May the Blessings of the Holy Spirit be upon you all in the days and weeks ahead.
peace.

Cathy LauzonI remember working with Don over the years at Stevenson and Hunt. He taught me the meaning of dedication, hard work, respect, but most of all honor. Playing cards with him at the annual fishing trip in Manitoulin, him chewing on a cigar. He was a true gentleman. One thing you didn't do with Don? If you didn't know the answer to something you sure couldn't bluff your way through it as he would call you on it. (smiling as I write this). At times, Don was like a substitute father for me. I learned much from this man over the years. Sharon and family, I send you my condolences during this difficult time. Heaven has gained another star. God speed Don.

Abby RossDon and his family have been a big part of my mom Pamela Masse and my grandparents Harley and Lynn Massse's life for 56 years. I have heard so many wonderful stories about Don, his bright humor, generosity towards others, his welcoming smile and eagerness to always spend times with his friends and family.
I personally have gotten to know his daughter Laural, who took me under her wing when I lived in Calgary. Don's kindness and fatherly love shone through Laural as she looked after me like I was her own daughter. My thoughts are with Laural and all of Don's friends and family today as I send love, hugs and positive vibes to all of those close and dear to Don.
Heaven has gained another angel. God always gives us rainbows after thunderstorms...may God's peace be with you in your time of grieving. One more star will rise in the sky tonight.

Michael MasseMy thoughts and prayers are with the Bere family today. He will be missed, he was a great and fun person to be around. I think back and remember the days we all spent at Ipperwash Beach and visited uncle Don at his house in Lambeth. There was always a warm and genuine loving feeling I would sence. I'll miss him and I'll always keep a special place in my heart for all those memories.

Jean KnightI was so saddened to hear of Don's passing. As a new Kiwanis member, Don took the time and interest to answer my questions and make sure I was an active participant in the club. His endless knowledge and patience never changed and I admired him very much. He has been missed at the meetings, but never forgotten.